Stepping, a communicative dance form that generally involves singing and chanting, is known for its alignment with college fraternities and sororities. Traditionally, stepping is associated with African-American organizations, which introduced stepping to consolidate unity. Though stepping seems very dramatic, it actually inculcates team spirit, the feelings of unity and bonding, which are the guiding principles and the backbone of brotherhood and sisterhood organizations. Although limited to the college scene, stepping is quite popular among the youth. The participants stomp, clap and even slap parts of their bodies in a synchronized manner, often guided by a step master.
Singing was at first incorporated into fraternities, where brothers would assemble in the quadrangle and sing a capella. Singing slowly made way to include dancing and eventually graduated to stepping. The white fraternities initiated the singing part, but the black fraternities raised it to a different level. Brothers started to dance along with the songs, imitating the steps of well-known groups as stepping evolved. Brothers always made an effort to win the hearts of ladies and would often come up with innovative and entertaining steps. It was much later that sororities incorporated stepping into their program.
With the passage of time stepping has become more complicated, with the incorporation of elements such as gymnastics, props and other features of team sports. Stepping has its origin in African boot dance. It is widely believed that stepping moves are derived from the Welly dance performed by African laborers. Steppers have not only adapted but modified and thereafter stylized the Welly dance moves. Step competitions today are organized across the country. Steppers compete to uphold the honor of their fraternity. Different fraternities adopt different techniques and have unique styles. Omega Psi Phi members, for instance, love to step forcefully while Kappa Alpha Psi has adopted a more sober approach.
At a time when African Americans were not welcome to join mainstream fraternities and sororities, they formed their own brotherhoods and sisterhoods. Although you can cite various reasons like community service, social opportunities, carrier networking and philanthropy for membership in any fraternity or sorority, the primary objective is actually bonding. You may look forward to feelings of teamwork, support and togetherness. When you join such an organization, you are on the road to personal discovery, challenge and friendship. These organizations help in enhancing your educational achievements by emphasizing social development, interpersonal skills and intellectual abilities.